AUSTIN, Texas — Next week, 446,460 first doses of COVID-19 vaccine will be delivered to vaccine providers, covering 753 providers in 101 counties.

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) is urging all providers to make more vaccine requests as there are 500,000 additional doses available.

DSHS Commissioner John Hellerstedt, MD, issued a letter on Friday to all providers asking those in need of more vaccines to put in a request by Tuesday in order for the delivery to arrive by next week.

"Additionally, if you have any new strategies for reaching additional people, please also let us know by Tuesday - including whether we can support you with vaccines, technical support, or even personnel," wrote Dr. Hellerstedt.

The doses will be sent to Austin’s DSHS pharmacy and used to fill vaccine requests starting next week.

With the arrival of those 446,460 first doses, 639,400 second doses are being ordered as well for people who received vaccinations a few weeks ago.

“An estimated 480,000 first and second doses are expected to be available to pharmacy locations, federally qualified health centers and dialysis centers as allocated directly by the federal government," said DSHS.

Vaccine availability continues to extend across the state. COVID-19 vaccine registration is available with the Texas Public Health Vaccine Scheduler at getthevaccine.dshs.texas.gov. Those who register will be matched with an appointment through a participating public health entity in their county.

If interested in more COVID-19 vaccine information, visit covidvaccine.texas.gov.